Which property of jet fuel contributes significantly to its higher susceptibility to water contamination?

Jet fuel's higher susceptibility to water contamination is primarily associated with its lower surface tension. Lower surface tension in liquids generally facilitates the interaction between water and the fuel, allows for droplets of water to remain suspended, and increases the likelihood of water becoming entrained in the fuel. This characteristic elevates the risk of water contamination during fuel handling and storage, particularly when fuel is pumped or agitated.

On the other hand, factors like viscosity, density, or freezing point do not have the same direct impact on the fuel's ability to mix with or retain water. Viscosity relates to the flow characteristics of the fuel, while density reflects the mass per unit volume. The freezing point can determine the conditions under which the fuel remains in a liquid state, but these factors do not directly correlate with the level of water contamination risk. Understanding the properties of jet fuel and their implications is vital for effective maintenance and operational practices in aviation.